How Does Acupuncture Work to Relieve Pain?
One possible reason for the effectiveness of acupuncture for pain relief is that acupuncture needles may stimulate the release of endorphins and opioids, the body’s natural pain killers. Research has shown that glucose and other bloodstream chemicals become elevated after acupuncture
therapy.So this could be one reason why acupuncture seems to work. Does Acupuncture Hurt?Acupuncture needles are metallic and sterile, used once and discarded. Needles are solid (not hollow, as are hypodermic or vaccination needles) and are only slightly larger than the width of human hair. Patients can feel the needle touching the skin, but there is no pain. It isn’t a tall like having an injection. When the needle locates the trigger point, there may be a “grabbing” sensation, followed by a relaxed, heavy feeling and overall body warmth. Some patients even fall asleep during treatment. Side effects are rare, but there may be some soreness or light headedness following treatment. Using needles for acupuncture treatment for pain relief cannot be done at home. It must be carried out by suitably trained and reputable practitioners. You want to be confident that the needles are sterile and that your medical profile is understood. Electro acupuncture on the other hand does not pierce the skin and can be used at home, after training by a therapist. The electro acupuncture device will be supplied by your therapist. When pain is relieved, patients often feel a greater sense of well-being overall, physically and emotionally. As a result, they may heal faster. Choosing an Acupuncture TherapistIn the USA Medical practitioners are allowed to provide acupuncture treatment after a basic training of 200-300 hours. Choose a practicing member of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture (AAMA) or one who is certified by the American Board of Medical Acupuncture Organizations, such as the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture, National Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance and The American Association of Oriental Medicine. These organizations provide lists of credentialed acupuncture practitioners. If you choose a licensed acupuncturist who is not an MD check that your practitioner has been certified by The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Alexandria, Virginia, and gets continuing education in the field. Naturopaths and chiropractors should have at least 200 hours of training and be approved by their state licensing boards. Acupuncture ResourcesBreakthrough Treatment for Back Pain Using Acupuncture
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